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Program gives cross-cultural certificationA certificate in cross-cultural competency is now available for students at Fresno State who want to increase their awareness of diversity. The College of Health and Human Services Certificate program, which is offered through the Department of Social Work Education, requires completion of 12 units from a variety of multi-cultural elective courses coordinated by the social work department. Dr. Betty Garcia, professor of social work education, stresses the fact that this program is beneficial to all students, regardless of their majors. “ Our perception of others and ourselves affects how we interact with clients, colleagues and business contacts,” Garcia said. “It is important to have an appreciation of the social identities of others with whom we work.” The required courses of this program include two classes that deal with cultural diversity and oppression. The first course, Social Work 136, is a broad introduction to concepts regarding oppression and entitlement. Social Work 137, the second course, is designed as a more hands-on approach to the ideas of multicultural awareness and interaction. Once a student has completed the certificate program, it is important to remember what was learned in these classes, according to Garcia. “ It’s not enough to say, ‘I’m culturally competent,’ but rather to apply these ideas in our everyday life, personally and professionally,” she said. Although the certificate program has been available for students for several years, it is just recently gaining popularity. The courses required for this certificate will be offered next semester, and more sections have been made available to accommodate the demand. The classes emphasize people’s differences and similarities among cultures, with activities and assignments to teach these concepts. “ It’s not about awareness, it’s about change,” Garcia said. More information about this program is available by contacting the social work department at 278-9999 or online at www.csufresno.edu/socwork/. |